Private Customized Shanghai City Day Tour with Local Expert
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Accompanied by your professional local guide to explore the amazing Shanghai city top attractions and hidden areas based on your interests and pace. This joyful private 8-hour tour is fully customized just for you. Not only can you choose to visit the famous Yu Garden, Old Town, Bund, French Concession, Fuxin Park, city skyscrapers but off-the-beaten-track places. To witness Shanghai's old and new, learn about the transformation of this fascinating city within 700 years. Besides, your professional local guide will always introduce you the most tasty local restaurants and find you yummy street food.
Available options
Tour w/ Guide and Private Car
Tour with Guide & Private Car: Lunch and attraction tickets are at your own cost.<br/>Pickup included
Tour with Guide Only
Duration: 8 hours<br/>Private tour with guide only: Transportation fee, lunch and attraction tickets are at your own cost.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Private transportation ( If tour w/ guide & private car option is selected )
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your excellent English-speaking guide at your hotel lobby at 9:00 am or your preferred departure time. Since this is a fully private customized tour based on your own interests, please choose 4 to 5 top attractions that you want to visit the most, or feel free to discuss your preference with your guide upon meeting. Typically, you will visit The Bund first, to see the amazing skyscrapers along the Huangpu River.
2
Stop 2
If you like, you can choose to visit the most famous classic Yu Garden. Your guide will share with you the Chinese garden art, and give you an overview of high official's garden life in the history.
3
Stop 3
You can also choose to visit one of the most famous Buddhist temple "Jade Buddha Temple". Your guide will not only point out all the details but also explain you the history of Buddhism and wisdom of Buddhism philosophy.
4
Stop 4
Another good choice is to visit Former French Concession, where is full of trendy bars and clubs. The area still holds something of the alluring mix of scrappy shanghainese street life and shopworn European colonial charm. Your guide will show you the most interesting area in the Former French Concession according to your preference.
5
Stop 5
If you want to have a bird view of Shanghai from one of the famous skyscrapers, Shanghai tower is a good option. You can take the fastest elevator (18m/s) in the world to 119F to have a wonderful view of Shanghai. Your guide will point out all the important places and explain you all the stories behind it.
6
Stop 6
Your final stop can be at Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, where is a perfect place for you to see Shanghai's history and future development. Your knowledgeable local guide will explain you everything in the exhibition hall. If you wish to do something else, such as food tasting, body massage, or visit other attractions, such as Shanghai Propaganda Museum, Shanghai Museum and etc, please feel free to let your guide know.
What's not included
Entrance ticket
Lunch
Private transportation ( If Tour with Guide Only option is selected )
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
11 reviews
5★
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Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
About Shanghai
Shanghai is a global financial hub and a city of stunning contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside traditional shikumen houses. It's known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and historic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination in China.
Top Attractions
The Bund
The Bund is a famous waterfront area with a stunning skyline of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. It's a must-visit for its historic significance and breathtaking views.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Oriental Pearl Tower
This iconic tower is a symbol of modern Shanghai, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.
Architecture
2-3 hours
¥150-200
Yu Garden
Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden with beautiful landscapes, pavilions, and historical buildings. It's a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.
Historical/Garden
2-3 hours
¥30
Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, providing a deep dive into China's rich history and culture.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is one of the world's busiest shopping streets, offering a mix of international brands, local shops, and vibrant street life.
Shopping
2-3 hours
Varies by shop
Must-Try Local Dishes
Xiaolongbao
Small soup dumplings filled with meat and hot broth, typically pork. They are a staple of Shanghai cuisine and are often served with soy sauce and ginger.
Dumplings
Contains meat, gluten, and soy.
Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
A slow-cooked dish of pork belly braised in soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with steamed buns or rice.
Main dish
Contains pork and soy.
Shanghai Soup Dumplings (Shao Mai)
Open-topped dumplings filled with minced pork and shrimp, often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger.
Dumplings
Contains pork, shrimp, and soy.
Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)
Fermented tofu with a strong odor, often deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage. It's an acquired taste but a popular street food.
Snack
Vegetarian, contains soy.
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby nature reserves
Biking along the Huangpu River
Tea house visits
Spa treatments
Visiting museums and historic sites
Attending traditional performances
Boat rides on the Huangpu River
Swimming at nearby beaches
Best Time to Visit
April to October
This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.
15°C to 35°C
59°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Widely spoken: Shanghainese, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Shanghai is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi.
- • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport • 30 km from city center
- Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport • 13 km from city center
By train
Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai South Railway Station
By bus
Shanghai Long-Distance Bus Station, Shanghai South Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Shanghai Metro is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's the fastest and most convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi, Meituan
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The Bund
Pudong
French Concession
Xintiandi
Tianzifang
Day trips
Hangzhou
180 km from Shanghai • Full day
Hangzhou is a beautiful city known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and the famous West Lake. It's a great day trip from Shanghai for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some nature.
Suzhou
100 km from Shanghai • Full day
Suzhou is a historic city known for its classical gardens, silk production, and canals. It's a great day trip for those interested in history, culture, and architecture.
Zhujiajiao
50 km from Shanghai • Half day
Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, canals, and bridges. It's a great day trip for those looking to experience traditional Chinese water town life.
Festivals
Shanghai Tourism Festival • September
Shanghai International Film Festival • June
Chinese New Year • January/February (varies)
Pro tips
- Use the Shanghai Public Transportation Card for convenient and discounted travel on metro, buses, and ferries.
- Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook to help with language barriers.
- Try local street food, but be cautious of food safety and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour to gain insights into Shanghai's history and culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
